There’s nothing better than the aroma of warm, cheesy garlic breadsticks fresh out of the oven. With their golden crust, gooey cheese, and rich garlic butter, these homemade breadsticks are the perfect side dish for pasta night or a delicious snack all on their own.

I first made these on a whim when a pizza craving hit, but I didn’t have any dough ready for a full pie. Instead, I turned to a simple dough recipe, layered on garlic butter and cheese, and created something even better—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and absolutely addictive.

Why You'll Love These Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Get ready to fall in love with these easy, flavorful breadsticks that will quickly become a household favorite.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a few pantry staples and some cheese, you can have a batch ready in no time—perfect for last-minute cravings.

They’re also customizable. Whether you love extra garlic, different cheeses, or even a little spice, these breadsticks can be tailored to suit your taste.

Not to mention, they pair well with just about anything. Serve them alongside pasta, soup, or your favorite dipping sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Best of all, they’re made from scratch. No preservatives, no artificial ingredients—just pure, homemade goodness.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to the best cheesy garlic breadsticks lies in a few key ingredients that bring out the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Flour is the foundation of these breadsticks, and all-purpose flour works best for a soft yet chewy texture. If you prefer a slightly heartier bread, you can substitute with bread flour.

Yeast is what makes the dough rise and gives these breadsticks their airy texture. Use instant yeast to speed up the process, or active dry yeast if you don’t mind waiting a little longer for the dough to proof.

Garlic butter is what makes these breadsticks truly irresistible. A combination of melted butter and freshly minced garlic infuses every bite with bold flavor. For an extra kick, try using roasted garlic.

Cheese is, of course, the star of the show. A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan creates the perfect blend of creamy, melty goodness with a slightly sharp bite.

A pizza stone or baking sheet is recommended for even baking and a crisp bottom. If you want a softer texture, using parchment paper on a baking sheet will work just fine.

How To Make These Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Making these breadsticks from scratch is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for the perfect batch every time.

Start by preparing the dough. In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about five minutes until it becomes foamy—this means the yeast is active. Stir in flour, salt, and a little olive oil, then knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic.

Let the dough rise. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for soft, fluffy breadsticks.

Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. The thickness is up to you—thinner dough will result in crispier breadsticks, while a thicker dough will be softer and chewier.

Next, make the garlic butter. Melt butter in a small saucepan and stir in minced garlic. Brush this mixture generously over the dough, ensuring that every inch is covered. Then, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly across the top.

Transfer the dough to a preheated oven and bake until golden brown and bubbly. Once done, let it cool slightly before slicing into strips. For the best experience, serve warm with marinara or ranch for dipping.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), storing these breadsticks properly will keep them fresh for later.

For short-term storage, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to five days.

To freeze, arrange the breadsticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to three months.

Reheating is easy—just pop them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes or warm them in an air fryer until crispy and heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can switch things up to fit your preferences.

If you love spice, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the garlic butter before brushing it onto the dough.

For an herby twist, mix chopped fresh parsley, oregano, or basil into the garlic butter for an extra layer of flavor.

Want extra cheesiness? Swap out mozzarella for a mix of provolone, gouda, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.

For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and add a little xanthan gum to help with the texture.

Experiment and have fun with these cheesy garlic breadsticks! Whether you keep them classic or add your own twist, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.